If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the heart and soul, look no further than this chicken and dumplings recipe. This classic comfort food features tender chicken simmered in a rich broth, paired with fluffy dumplings that soak up all the delicious flavors. Perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
– 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup carrots, diced
– 1 cup celery, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 bowl) contains approximately 350 calories, 15g of fat, 30g of carbohydrates, and 25g of protein. This nutritional value is based on one serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a large pot, combine chicken, broth, water, carrots, celery, and onion.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour until chicken is cooked.
- Remove chicken from pot and let it cool slightly before shredding into bite-sized pieces.
- Return shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine milk and melted butter, then add to the flour mixture.
- Stir until just combined to form a soft dough.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough into the simmering broth.
- Cover the pot and cook for 15 minutes, allowing dumplings to steam.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the whole chicken with boneless chicken breasts or thighs for a quicker option. For a healthier twist, use whole wheat flour for the dumplings and add more vegetables like peas or green beans.
Serving and Pairings
This dish is perfect on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad for a fresh touch or some crusty bread to soak up the broth. A glass of white wine can also complement the flavors beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat in a pot over medium heat or in the microwave. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months, but the dumplings may lose their texture when reheated.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overmix the dumpling dough; it should be slightly lumpy.
- Ensure the broth is simmering before adding dumplings to achieve the right texture.
- Don’t skip letting the chicken rest before shredding; it helps retain moisture.
- Use fresh vegetables for better flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the broth.
- Consider using a slow cooker for a hands-off approach.
- Use a mixture of chicken thighs and breasts for varied texture.
- Keep the lid on while cooking dumplings to ensure they steam properly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure it’s fully cooked through. It may take longer to reach a simmer.
What can I do if my dumplings are dense?
Dense dumplings often result from overmixing the dough. Make sure to mix just until combined for a light, fluffy texture.
Can I add more vegetables to the recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as peas, green beans, or corn for added nutrition and flavor.
How do I make gluten-free dumplings?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure other ingredients are also gluten-free.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce into the broth.
Conclusion
This chicken and dumplings recipe is a timeless classic that brings comfort and warmth to any table. With its rich flavors and tender dumplings, it’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy a dish that’s sure to become a beloved favorite in your household.
The Best Chicken And Dumplings Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken about 4 lbs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup carrots diced
- 1 cup celery diced
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter melted
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine chicken, broth, water, carrots, celery, and onion.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour until chicken is cooked.
- Remove chicken from pot and let it cool slightly before shredding into bite-sized pieces.
- Return shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine milk and melted butter, then add to the flour mixture.
- Stir until just combined to form a soft dough.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough into the simmering broth.
- Cover the pot and cook for 15 minutes, allowing dumplings to steam.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.